New WhatsApp update to let users highlight and copy parts of messages

WhatsApp is developing a new feature that will allow users to copy selected text from within a message, instead of having to copy the entire message.

The update is expected to improve how users interact with messages, especially in work or information-heavy chats where WhatsApp is a primary communication tool.

The feature is still under development and is not yet available for public use.

However, information from the beta version of the app shows that users will soon be able to tap and hold on a message, then drag to highlight and copy specific sections. This works much like how text is selected in email or note-taking apps.

It is expected that the feature will be rolled out first on Android, with iOS support coming later.

Once launched, it will help users extract only the relevant parts of long messages, such as addresses, payment instructions, or verification codes, without copying unnecessary text.

“This is a good move, it will be very efficient and timesaving for us as businesspeople who may need to quickly extract a client’s address, payment details, or specific instructions from a long message,” said Caroline Wanjiru, a small business owner based in Maziwa.

“Instead of copying the whole text and sifting through it, we can now grab exactly what we need.”

Users who rely on WhatsApp for both work and personal communication have welcomed the move, saying it will help reduce errors, improve clarity, and save time.

In recent months, WhatsApp has added new tools like message editing, chat locking, and AI-powered chat sorting.

While no date has been set for the official launch of the new feature, the company is expected to begin testing it with beta users in the coming weeks.

Those interested in accessing early updates can sign up for WhatsApp’s beta program on Android or iOS.